Drunk headbutted police cell

Stefan Stewart O'Neill made threats towards officers and insulted waiting patients after he arrived at the Royal Blackburn Hospital for treatment, Burnley magistrates were told.

The court heard how the 29-year-old smelled of alcohol, his eyes were glazed and he was unsteady on his feet when police responded to reports of a drunken man causing trouble in Nelson at 6pm. He had tried to run away, but officers caught him up.

Jobless O'Neill was advised to go home, was spotted going into a property a short time later but was then seen staggering in the middle of the road. He was abusive towards the police.

Miss Parveen Akhtar (prosecuting) said: "While in custody, he headbutted a cell wall and was taken to Blackburn Hospital. He was being abusive to members of the public and making threats towards police."

The defendant, who was not represented by a solicitor, told the hearing: "The footie was on. I had a bit too much to drink and things got out of hand. It was out of order and it wouldn't have happened if I hadn't had a drink. If I have a drink, I don't seem to stop."

O'Neill, of Belgrave Street, Nelson, admitted being drunk and disorderly on Belgrave Street, on June 27th.

He was given a 12-month conditional discharge and must pay £85 costs and a £20 victim surcharge.